Gran Canaria — Things to Do

As a well-known tourist destination, Gran Canaria offers plenty of things to do for every type of visitor. Whether you’re with your family, a loved one, a group of friends, or just by yourself, the crown jewel of the Canary Islands is a paradise for all. The mild climate and sunny weather year-round means you can enjoy a wide range of activities whenever you visit.

Most visitors come to Gran Canaria for the beaches, but when you get tired of the surf and sand, head to the old quarter of the capital, north or inland to discover beautiful natural landscapes. While here, why not enjoy a game or two on any of the fine golf courses? Most of them overlook the coastline, providing stunning views as you tee off.

Campo de Golf Maspalomas is one of the major destinations for golf in the heart of Maspalomas. It is an 18-hole public course with practice greens, equipment for rent, a restaurant, a driving range, and instructors for beginners. Other notable courses include Real Club de Golf de Las Palmas in the capital, Salobre Golf Course in Cono Sur and Cortijo Club de Golf Campo in Telde.

Gran Canaria is a perfect starting point for whale and dolphin watching trips. Head to Puerto Rico (the resort, not the country) to join boat excursions that come face to face with these beautiful marine creatures and interact with them in their natural habitat. Spirit of the Sea can also organize sailing ventures. For those looking to explore underwater life, scuba diving can be arranged by PADI-certified centers in resorts and hotels or independent providers like BSAC Premier Dive Centre, who organizes trips to the marine reserve of El Cabron. Gran Canaria’s southern area is the best region for diving enthusiasts.

Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles are the top destinations for windsurfing in Gran Canaria. For beginners, Dunkerbeck Windsurfing Center on Playa Aguila is a great spot to practice and gain confidence. The beaches offer many opportunities to enjoy activities like canoeing, kayaking, snorkeling, and beach volleyball. Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles also have horse riding facilities.

Cycling is a great form of exercise and an excellent way to traverse the varied landscapes of Gran Canaria. Happy Biking is one of the rental providers in Maspalomas and Playa del Ingles and offers tours for visitors and beginners. If you prefer to stay on two feet, you can also go hiking to enjoy the mountain scenery mixed with lakeside trails, forested roads, inhabited cave villages, archeological wonders, and majestic volcanoes.